What kinds of tests might my doctor order to diagnose the cause of the urinary incontinence?
During the examination, your doctor may perform a number of simple tests. These will help determine the type of leakage that you are experiencing. This may include a cough test, when you are asked to cough several times while the doctor watches for urine leakage. Other possible tests include measurement of the post void residual, which is the amount of urine left in the bladder after urinating. This can be done with an ultrasound probe (called a bladder scan) or by inserting a catheter into the bladder.
Laboratory tests that may be ordered include a urinalysis to look for evidence of infection or blood in the urine. Sometimes blood tests may be ordered to measure your kidney function.
